Jessica Walters Photography

Welcome Home HSL-37 Det 2! | MCBH Homecoming Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Another homecoming? YES PLEASE!

I am so glad to be able to share the day one of my best friends, Megan and her beautiful children reunited with Brendan! Brendan proudly served with HSL 37 Det 2 aboard the USS Sampson, a boat based out of San Diego.

Brendan left back in March for an almost 6 month deployment. I have never seen someone who handled a deployment as well as Megan did. Personally speaking, I have no idea how she does it. She was working full time, 2 very rambunctious boys, and one infant under 6months, but she did!

After being blessed to have done the boys back to school photos, their maternity session, sweet baby Maggie's newborn photos along with covering her baptism, I was beyond stoked to be a part of something so awesome again!

Welcome home Brendan and the rest of Det 2!

Here are some of my favorites from the day!

Welcome Home HMH 362 Advon! | MCBH Homecoming Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Thu, 30 Aug 2012 19:00:00 +0000

It feels like yesterday that Sarah contacted me about getting family photos done before Brad deployed with HMH 362. I absolutely ADORE this sweet family. From the time I met them, I just knew this family would be in my life for more than just a photo session.

During Brad's deployment, I also photographed sweet Liam's 1 year photos ( See them here ). I seriously cannot even begin to say how I much I love this sweet family.

A few months ago, I heard from Sarah again! This time, for Brad's homecoming!!! After a few scheduling snafu's it looked like I would be available!

One of my most favorite aspects of my "job" is that I get to meet some pretty amazing people. Beyond meeting them, a lot of them become friends, and friends become family in the military community. I am always left feeling blessed when I am able to capture such precious moments for a family.

Welcome home Brad, welcome home!

Lauren & Stephen | Waimanalo Couples Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Mon, 27 Aug 2012 19:00:00 +0000

Oh my! It has been a VERY long time since I have posted! I suppose it's time to play catch up!

What better way to start than with a GORGEOUS couple? I met Lauren and Steven on Waimanalo Beach for a sunrise couples session! They booked at the very last minute while Lauren was out here on vacation visiting Steven, who is stationed out here.

Oddly enough, the military always finds a way to make this big ol world feel not so big. As Lauren and I were emailing getting their session planned out, I noticed her area code for her phone number was the same as where I grew up. Come to find out, Lauren, Steven, and I are all from the Tampa Bay area! I always love being able to talk about "back home" with people who actually know the area!

These two absolutely melted my heart their entire session! They are so in love and it's just beautiful to be able to see couples like that. Couples like Lauren and Steven are why I LOVE my job!

Here are a few from their session for you to enjoy :)

Sweet Samuel | Honolulu Hawaii Newborn Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 18:30:00 +0000

Oh, sweet, sweet Samuel! This sweet baby was just an absolute angel during his in home newborn session! It seriously was a DREAM!

Samuel joined 2 older brothers, Charlie and George! Their family has TOO much gorgeous going on!

There isn't much to say about Samuel beside he has too much cuteness going on and it's accompanied by a lot of black hair!

Enjoy!

The Flint Family | Lanikai Hawaii Family Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 18:30:00 +0000

So, yesterday, ya'll got to see the beautiful Flint Girls in action. Today, you get the WHOLE FAMILY!

We met at Lanikai Beach for a big ole family session with The Flint's along with Anna's sister and mother who were in town visiting!

I absolutely love, love, love this family! I will seriously miss seeing their girls grow once I move at the end of the year.

I hope you all enjoy these :)

The Flint Girls | Oahu Hawaii Children's Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 18:30:00 +0000

Woah! Where do I even begin with these beautiful little girls? I have been photographing this family from the very, very beginning of JWP!

I first met them in January of 2011 before the twins were even born! Maya was super shy and didn't really care to be photographed. Let's fast forward to 2 weeks ago this year!

The twins are 1. Maya LOVES the camera... and let's be honest, Daddy is in t.r.o.u.b.le. in about 10 years with all 3 of these beauties!

Enjoy!

I hope you all enjoy these images !

Loves,

Jessica

The EXPERIENCE | Tell All Tuesday | Oahu Hawaii Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Hey ya'll! It took me a while to come up with this week's Tell All Tuesday post, but, I decided to ramble on about the experience you can expect from Jessica Walters Photography!

In the last year, I have come to learn that it's more than the portraits that people are expecting from photography sessions, they crave the experience! What can I do that sets me aside from the next? Besides being me, I can promise to provide you with an experience to go along with those fabulous photographs!

When shop in any store or with any company, customer service is make it or break it for me. I have had great experiences with various companies down to their impeccable service keeping me a super loyal customer. I've also loved a product from somewhere, but, had not so great customer service. Unfortunately, I can't say that I return to companies that don't value the people supporting their business.

Why should I be any different? Each and everyone of my clients/friends (Yes, I consider ya'll friends) is important to me. I am not perfect and will never claim to be and the first year of being in business is definitely a learning experience. Over the last couple weeks, I have really been focusing on bettering myself and the service I provide. I think putting out there and letting you know what you can FULLY expect from me is a way to make sure everything is communicated well and to keep me in check. <3

Effective immediately!

Without further rambles...

You want to book a session with JWP! Great! Whats next?

-Once I receive your initial email, I will send over a client questionnaire for you to fill out and send back to me. This will provide me some very basic information such as session desired, date range, products desired, etc. Once determined that I am available for the session you are inquiring about, we will set up either a phone or in person consultation!

-During your consultation, we will further discuss your wants, needs, ideas, etc for your upcoming session. This is the best opportunity for us to get comfortable with each other prior to your session! I love meeting new people and getting to know them, so don't hold back! This is also when we will set a date/time/location for your shoot, if it wasn't stated in your questionnaire. At the end of the consultation we will take care of your retainer fee, client agreement, and model release. I will send you on your way with a hug and a business card (if we meet up for your consultation) with all my contact information on it. You are welcome to give me a shout anytime you have a question / concern prior to your session.

-After our consultation, I will send over a Welcome Packet. You are now part of the JWP family. There will be some awesome information in your welcome packet such as what to expect during your session, session tips, faq's, etc. If you have any questions after the packet, get in touch with me, I would love to answer any questions you may have!

-Two to three days before your session, I will shoot you an email or give you a call (which ever you prefer) to remind you of your appointment and confirm all the details!

-During your session, you can expect FUN! I really love to shoot natural moments, authentic smiles, and the real you. I will try my absolute best to make sure everyone involved is comfortable, laughing, and having a good time. I promise to ask you to relax if needed, tell a joke to make you guys laugh, and to have you looking gorgeous! I will show you images time to time of the shots I'm getting to make sure that we are still on the same page. This is the BEST time to let me know if there is ANYTHING you want changed/don't like/are loving, etc. Once we have completed your session, I will once again send you off with a hug and a card if you need another one. I want you know to that I am always available if you have questions.

-Within 48 hours, you can expect 2-3 teasers on Facebook if you signed the release allowing me to post those images.

-Within 14 days (up to 21 during peak times, this will be addressed ahead of time) your final images will be ready and I will call you to set a delivery or pick up date/time. A few days after your images have been delivered, the will be blogged for you to share with your family (if you gave permission for this).

I truly want to provide everyone with the best memorable experience! If you for some reason are not happy at any point during your time with me, please, please let me know so I can make things right! I truly value ALL feedback. Feedback is how I learn to grow and make things even better for the future!

All in All, I am looking forward to working with you and hope that you are ready for the experience that JWP provides!

Mention this post while booking your session and receive a FREE 8x10 from your session <3

The Blackadar's | Oahu Hawaii Couples Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Mon, 02 Jul 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Aloha! I'm playing catch up with blogs and today it's the Blackadar's! I knew Stephanie personally before she booked her couples session up on North Shore, Oahu and I was super excited to finally get to meet her Kevin.

Kevin was home on R&R so it was extra special to get to spend some time with them. In the last year that I have been in business, I have come across so many couples. These two are probably one of the most in love couples I have ever met. There is no doubt that either of these two are still head over heels in love with each other.

Throughout the entire session, Kevin just had the most loving gazes for Stephanie.. and well Stephanie's eyes, those beautiful blue eyes, they still have that sparkle!

I hope you all enjoy these!

THANK YOU, Kevin, for all that you do for our country. THANK YOU, Stephanie, for keeping all well on the home front! <3

Loves,

Jessica

Kaiti | Oahu Hawaii Portrait Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Fri, 29 Jun 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Happy Friday, Y'all! Today, you guys get the pleasure of seeing my beautiful friend, Kaiti! A few weeks ago, we met up for a portrait/headshot session and well, we had a freaking blast!

Kaiti is a fellow photographer (and my ex neighbor until she left me! hmph!) and great friend of mine! I am truly going to miss her when we leave!

There really isn't much to say when there are some seriously fierce photos below waiting for y'all! Enjoy!

Need headshots of your own? Email me! Jwaltersphotography@gmail.com

Want to check out Kaiti's work? DO IT! Kaitlin Stoeckel Photography

Hope you all have a fantabulous weekend!

Loves,

Jessica

Tell All Tuesday: My Passion

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Tue, 26 Jun 2012 18:18:00 +0000

Another personal post (kinda) coming at you for Tell All Tuesday!

It has been an interesting journey for me in terms of my photography life. I started out in photography by doing a "For His Eyes Only" Special after I lost my job in Jan 2011. Over the last 15months, I have gone from loving For His Eyes Only sessions the most to loving families, children, and newborns. Only recently have I found my TRUE passion in terms of photography. I love photographing couples in love, beautiful mothers to be, and most of all, I love photographing women.

I love being able to make a woman feel beautiful, sexy, adorable, desirable, natural, etc. I LOVE being able to answer the question my clients ask me "Who is that woman in the photograph" with the most simplest of answers, "She is You."

The women who come to be are wives, mothers, daughters, sisters. But most of all, they are natural, real, beautiful, sexy, fun, smart, strong, they are WOMEN. At the end of the day, if I can make a woman truly feel beautiful, that is worth more to me than any dollar amount.

Many of you who don't know me, won't get why I'm so passionate about these sessions without a little back story. I am going to open up on a super personal level here and put myself out there.

I am overweight. I struggle daily with body image issues. I have been the "fat photographer" in my circle of friends. I know what it's like to feel undesirable. I know what it's like to be insecure. I know what it's like to battle the mirror and unflattering photographs of myself. I know my biggest critic is myself. But, I also know what it's like to have one amazing photograph of myself that I feel over joyed to see, to feel beautiful in, to forget the rest of what I think about myself. Those photographs to me are worth millions. (By the way, this was in no means added in for pity- just being real with you. I am on my own journey to lose the weight and find inner happiness and acceptance with my appearance.)

That is why I am so passionate about providing women with those images. I want women to look, feel, and KNOW they are beautiful.

So for the month of July, I am offering a KILLER deal on my "For His Eye's Only" session & goodies!

All women should feel beautiful and be reminded how beautiful they are. Gift Certificates for these sessions ARE available. <3

Maile | Oahu Newborn Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 19:30:00 +0000

Sweet Maile is a very lucky little baby! Tasha and Bryan are excellent parents and she is joining big brother Eli in their amazing little family.

I've known Tasha and Bryan a little over a year now, so I was obviously overjoyed when Tasha emailed me asking if I could squeeze baby Maile in for some newborns!

She is one very beautiful little girl and Daddy's in trouble when she grows up!

Enjoy!

Anastyn Cam | Oahu, Hawaii Newborn Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 18:35:00 +0000

Sweet baby Anastyn! I was blessed to be able to capture the beautiful baby of Lindsay and Bill (who's maternity session can be seen here) when she was only 5 days new!

Anastyn was the perfect newborn to photograph! She was well fed, tired, and just freaking adorbs!

Welcome to the world, Anastyn Cam!

Amanda | Oahu Hawaii Maternity Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Sat, 23 Jun 2012 00:30:00 +0000

I am so excited to finally post these! This session was the second time I was able to photograph the beautiful Amanda for a maternity session! We met in one of my most favorite fields on the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii. I seriously never get tired of the views!

The first time I photographed Amanda was back in March along side her husband, Joey, before he deployed. Amanda was only 20-something weeks during the first shoot, so she was barely showing. It wasn't too long after I returned back from Florida that Amanda had contacted me about getting some more photographs of her growing belly! I can't begin to tell you how excited I was!

This time, she was 36 weeks along and not too far out from having her sweet baby girl.

I hope you enjoy these!

Thank you so much Amanda & Joey for letting me a part of a special time in your lives! Congratulations on the arrival of Sweet Baby Madelyn!

Ashley | Oahu Hawaii Women's Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 02:36:00 +0000

My oh my, where do I even begin with this one? First off, let me warn you, Ashley has too much gorgeousness going on to handle!

Ashley is a good friend of mine and fellow photographer. I was blessed enough to do one of my favorite types of sessions with Ashley... I used to call it "For His Eyes Only" but truth be told, it's more than that. It's about a woman looking and feeling exactly what she is, BEAUTIFUL. She is stunning and she knows how to work the camera.

Luckily, Ashley's home has beautiful natural light, so of course, that's where we settled on for the location! Not to mention her bedroom is all white, which was exactly what we were going for. Clean. Simple. Natural. Beautiful. ASHLEY!

Without anymore rambling from me, here are some images from her session!

(^^^ one of my FAVES from her entire session)

(HAD to throw a color one in there just because!)

Want to get a session done like this? Make sure to email me jwaltersphotography@gmail.com to get yours booked!

Tell All Tuesday : What I shoot with!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Tue, 19 Jun 2012 20:12:00 +0000

I love answering your questions in Tell All Tuesday's! This week, by request, I will be going over what I shoot with and what other gear I love. . . and why!

Starting off with what I shoot with, I like to keep it very very basic. I am a total Canon girl! I rock a Canon 7D body, her name is "Candy" and we have a great relationship!

Why do I love this camera? Well to be blunt, it fit my needs at the time of purchase when I wasn't sure where this photography gig was going for me. From there it has not let me down with my business needs and uses. It is however a crop frame and I do dream of upgrading to a full frame body in the next year (HINT HINT!!! My birthday is in December, folks! JK! But seriously...). If you are looking for a body that is affordable, great quality, and easy to use, I definitely recommend this beauty.

My main go-to-lens is the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 . In canon world, this is the middle of the 3 options for a 50mm lens. I started out with the 50mm f/1.8 but I have found that the 1.4 is a much better lens for just a little bit more money.

Why do I love this? Well, in comparison to the "Thrifty Fifty" (50mm f/1.8) it is much faster and quieter, which is a HUGE plus. I also find the images to be a little sharper, clearer, and with better bokeh (that blurry background look) than with the Thrifty Fifty. This is seriously my go-to portrait lens and it very rarely comes off my body. It's just pretty and I love it!

I do also have the Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 lens which I use primarily for my military homecoming lens. It was the "kit" lens that came with my body. It serves it's purpose for that use, but will be upgraded in the near future as well.

One of my other go to items is my ShootSac bag! I know I have stated that I don't changes lenses for the most part during a session, but I like to have my 28-135 and external flash (Canon 430ex II) just in case.

Why do I love this? Oh my, I can't even begin to tell you the reasons! It's messenger bag style allows it to fit snugly against my body while shooting. This allows for easy and quick access to my other items if I need to get to them since the flap just flips up. I like to keep things super simple during the shoot and with 6 individual "pockets" it allows me to keep my extra lens, flash, wallet, keys, cell phone, bobby pin & hair tie case, and a couple miscellaneous items all in one snug place. This means I can ditch my purse when going to a shoot. I love simple and this rocks it out for simple!

As you can see Im a minimalist for equipment and things I take, I like to keep it simple and make sure the focus is on you and your family during your shoot!

If you have a question you'd love to be answered during the next Tell All Tuesday, be sure to email it to Jwaltersphotography@gmail.com I look forward to hearing from ya'll!

The Estrada's | Hawaii Family Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Mon, 11 Jun 2012 21:57:00 +0000

My o my, I am so late on blogging this session!

I met up with the Estrada's last month for a beautiful family photo session on one of my most favorite beaches in Hawaii ever!

Rikki and her family are probably one of my most loyal clients/friends! I have over the last year photographed just Rikki, Rikki and her son (Daddy was deployed), Alfonso's homecoming ceremony, and now their complete family as a whole. I absolutely LOVE being able to be apart of so many memories and events in a family's life. I truly feel like part of the family.

When my husband and I PCS, it's families like the Estrada's that I will miss, truly.

I hope you enjoy their session as much as I do!

The Asbury's | North Shore, Oahu Maternity Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Fri, 01 Jun 2012 18:00:00 +0000

I met up with Lindsay and Bill on the North Shore of Oahu for their maternity session. It was very iffy on whether we were going to make it through due to the very cloudy skies and the threat of rain. We started at the beach first for some casual laid back photos of them. Right as we finished at the beach, we headed down the road to this little area with cool fencing, yummy light, and perfect backdrops!

I had such a blast with Lindsay and Bill during their session! These two are going to make ridiculously awesome parents and I can't wait to shoot their newborn session in the coming weeks when their little girl makes her arrival.

In the mean time, I hope you enjoy these!

With parents that look like THIS, I bet their baby girl is going to be GORGEOUS!

See?!!! Yummy light + Beautiful Momma to be = LOVE

Love them? Make sure to leave some love below :)

3/3 Weapons | MCBH Homecoming Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Fri, 25 May 2012 21:30:00 +0000

Just a couple days before sweet McKenzie's husband was set to arrive back in the United States, she contacted me about photographing their homecoming ceremony on MCBH in Kaneohe, HI.

Homecomings are one of my favorite types of events to capture purely for the raw emotion that always is present. I was more than overjoyed to have space available in my calendar to squeeze her in.

Watching her wait with her friends, see the anticipation growing, and the tears of joy falling was probably one of the most rewarding experiences I've had. I offer my services 100% free of charge for homecoming coverage. As most people know, my husband proudly serves his country as well and I understand the sacrifices we make as spouses/significant others as well as the sacrifices made by the service member during deployment. To be able to offer photographic memories of their reunion is the least I can do to say THANK YOU.

I hope you have some tissues ready, because this reunion was too emotional. McKenzie's face shows exactly what she was feeling at that moment.

Because every celebration needs a band!

No more living attached to her phone waiting for a phone call. (At least not for now!)

I'd say this group of beautiful ladies were very very happy!

The plane is HERE!

At this point, she kept saying "My heart is racing.. IM FREAKING OUT!!!!"

Pretty sure it was starting to set in that this part of their lives was coming to a close. He. Is. HOME!

She sees him.

And they lived happily ever after!

McKenzie & Jon, I want to thank you for letting me be a part of your special moment. Now, enjoy making up for lost time!!! <3

Little Liam | Kaneohe Children's Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Fri, 25 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Oh my! I don't think ya'll are ready for the cuteness that is about to happen! Liam just turned one and his mommy wanted to make sure she had some photos of him at this age, so we made it happen! We met on the most perfect afternoon in Kaneohe at a beautiful park and let the magic happen!

I will say, that this shoot was inspired by a photo I saw floating around on Pinterest done by Karena Dixon Photography

Sarah, Liam's mother out did herself with his cute little onesie! It was perfect!

Enjoy!

Liam is ready to GO!

Seriously? How sweet is this face?

(It's his Birthday, and he'll cry if he wants to!)

Happy 1st Birthday, Sweet Boy.

Caroline & Blythe | Honolulu Children's Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Thu, 24 May 2012 02:12:00 +0000

Earlier this month, I met up with some of my favorite little girls for a session to cover their 3rd and 5th birthday's, Easter, and Caroline's graduation from Pre-K. Basically a big ole Spring session. Their mom had put me on the task of getting one fabulous picture of them that will be hung on a 20x30 canvas in their living room. Quite the task when you're working with 2 little girls who tire of photos very quickly.

But once stepped foot in the beautiful gardens, these little girls became quite the little models. Caroline was all about the flowers and scoping out the pond and fish... Blythe on the other hand was all about giving her mom a heart attack. As you will see, they had on beautiful monogrammed white linen dresses and the grounds were very wet since it was raining off and on. Blythe was more about climbing and touching everything.

The good news? We made it through their session with no heart attacks and mostly clean until the very end. Oh, and there were PLENTY of photos for Mom to choose from for her much wanted canvas :)

Here are some of my favorites from their sweet session :)

Sweet Blythe started praying during her time in front of the camera. Not quite sure what she was praying about, perhaps it was to be done taking pictures! But sweet moment none the less!

Caroline ADORED all the pretty flowers!

I loved getting these moments with the girls. I never had a sister, but, I imagine if I did, we'd be best friends just like these two. I hope that in 20, 30, 40, and 50 years down the road these two can look back at these photos and smile.

Probably two of my favorites of these two. The photo on left is just a true shot of Caroline and Blythe. Caroline was having a great time and well, Blythe, she was telling Caroline to "STOP SISSY!" haha. And the photo on the right, well, who wouldn't love a sweet photo of these two?!

Watch out Daddy! She is going to be a heart breaker! (Oh, and notice the frog over by the right edge of the photo!)

I hope you all enjoy these as much as I do! <3

Randy & Randeep | Ewa Beach, Hawaii Couples Photographer

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Thu, 24 May 2012 01:04:00 +0000

Meet Randy & Randeep! After a rain out in Waimanalo the first go around, we opted for a more dry beach for the second go around. We met up right before sunset at Nimitz Beach in Ewa to finish their session. This couple was absolutely a blast to work with. Randy just returned from a long deployment overseas and I could tell they were making up for some lost time on their hugs and kisses.

These two were very affectionate and I didn't have to instruct them much on anything. It was GREAT! I adore when a couple comes to me so in love and I feel like I'm just a bystander capturing the sweet moments. Randy and Randeep were THAT couple! Randy even had a couple ideas of his own that you'll see below.

These two will soon have their big wedding and I bet they are going to be the most beautiful bride and groom San Francisco has ever seen!

Here are some of my favorites from their session!

The first three were shot in Waimanalo before the rain hit.

Doesn't she have the most beautiful smile, ever?

Now, I will say, normally a completely crooked horizon will drive me absolutely NUTS... But, this was one of those moments that could not be repeated. This was an authentic moment that just melts my heart. Her smile is so true and real and full of love that it makes me forget that it's not straight and I love it.

Right before the shot on the right, Randy noticed how beautiful the moon looked (possibly because it was the night before the big Super Moon!) and wanted to know if they could get it in a shot and even though we were rapidly losing light we got a couple shots. I really adore the sweetness of their emotion. I hope I pulled it off for you guys :)

Hope you all enjoy your photos as much as I do and that you have the most beautiful wedding imaginable. <3

Troy | Jacksonville, FL Children

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Wed, 23 May 2012 03:45:00 +0000

I am very very behind in posting this, but better late than never! During my trip to Florida, I ventured up to the beautiful city of Jacksonville to photograph this handsome little man. His auntie is a very good friend of mine from Hawaii and she wanted to make sure he had some good photographs taken.

We met up on their family friends 1000 acre property. I can't even explain the immense beauty of this land. I think I told Renee, the property owner at least 5-10 times how stunning it was and that I wanted to live there. Even if it was in a tent in the woods!

I had some serious expectations before meeting Troy. His aunt always shared "Troy Stories" with us back in Hawaii and some of them would be hard to believe when you knew he was only 4. To say he was infamous in our group of friends would be an understatement.

If you're wondering if Troy lived up to my expectations. He did. I think its safe to say that he even surpassed them in terms of being photographed.

Enjoy these favorites of mine from Troy's session.

Tell All Tuesday- How I got into photography...

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Wed, 23 May 2012 03:21:00 +0000

I am often asked "How did you get into this?" Well, to be honest, I wish I could say I always had a passion for photography and that I grew up knowing I would one day be a photographer. But that would be a lie.

Have I always liked taking pictures? Absolutely. I've always preferred being behind the camera rather than in front!

It wasn't until 2008 that I got my very first "real" camera, aka, a DSLR. My sweet little Nikon D60. It started on my honeymoon in Hawaii with my husband where we had purchased a semi advanced bigger point and shoot, but I quickly found that it didn't do what I wanted it to do. I wanted MORE. I wanted faster. I wanted sharper. So, my very amazing, generous, spoils me too much husband, bought the Nikon D60 for me for a birthday/Christmas present (Random Fun Fact, my birthday is Christmas Eve!).

I got a lot of use out of it in 2009. We were still stationed with the Blue Angels in Pensacola, Fl. I often would travel to wherever the air shows were to spend whatever extra time I could with W. My camera always came with. I swear, I must have take thousands of photos of airplanes, helos, and other air show exhibitions. Then came begging my friends to let me borrow their kids... which naturally, they did. Towards the end of 2009, our dreams came true and we moved to the land of Aloha.

I spent 2010 and the very start of 2011 working at a doctor's office in town and to be honest, I wasn't happy. I had started practicing my photography more on friends and friends of friends at the end of 2010. It wasn't until January 2011 that I lost my job at the doctor's office and friend pushing me to do photos for girls for Valentines Day that I had even considered it being a possible job for me.

So there it began... All with the simple idea pushed by a good friend of mine.

March of 2010, I took my very first workshop by a wonderful photographer (and now friend!), Alyssa Turner of AlyssaPix. This is when it all changed for me. I really learned how to use my camera, how to control things, how to be AWESOME! Ok, well awesomeness can't be taught, you just are.... But you get my point. On that note, since I firmly believe Alyssa has been one of my biggest helpers. She is always sharing knowledge and fabulousness. I want to make sure to let you know to check out her page if you are interested in learning how to use your camera- she often offers an "Out of the Box" workshop to get you shooting out of the auto mode. Its VERY affordable. If you are a mom-tographer, aspiring photographer, hobbyist, I promise you can learn something!

From there it's kind of history. I have been very very blessed to have a wonderful client (and by client, I mean FRIEND) base that has allowed me to stay busy, stay shooting, and stay motivated.

I could have made this post a lot longer with all the nasty grimy details, but, we'll keep it short and sweet.

Please make sure to send all questions that you want answered in Tell All Tuesdays to jwaltersphotography@gmail.com

Tell All Tuesday!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Wed, 02 May 2012 02:26:00 +0000

Aloha ladies and gents!

I have decided to designate Tuesdays as my "tell all" post day of the week. My goal for Tell All Tuesday's is to cover personal snippets, anything you guys want to know about me, my camera, photography, and whatever else pops into my little head! So bring on those questions!

This week... you get to find out more about who I am!

Hi, I'm Jessica :)
I am married to the love of my life, who happens to be a United States Sailor. He may often be referred to as "W"
I was born in California, raised in Florida, living in Hawaii, but moving to Naples, Italy in 2013.
I adore smiley's and exclamation marks! I can't help but always be excited!! :)
I am obsessed with my sweet mini-schnauzer Zoe.
My heart is easily won over by southern food and country music.
I have met some of the most amazing women (and pretty fabulous photographers) who have blessed me with knowledge, love, and faith that this industry isn't always cold and cut throat.
I am addicted to Target! (I have many friends who can attest to my way too frequent Facebook check-in's there)
I love Starbucks, in almost any form, but my top 2 faves there are Cafe Vanilla Frap Light or Passion Tea.
I have a serious sweet tooth for fruity candy: Mike n Ikes, Skittles, Twizzlers, Starburst, Jellybeans, YES PLEASE!
I am falling in love with making my own jewelry- I have a couple awesome pieces.
I am afraid of heights, but, I have big dreams to go on a hot air balloon ride or skydive one day.
I am currently on my own journey to be healthier and get in better shape.
I absolutely LOVE to shoot maternity and couples sessions, oh and a good cake smash session!
I am addicted to Facebook, Instagram, and some days Pinterest.
I am a Canon girl :)
I LOVE MY JOB.

I cannot wait to continue Tell All Tuesday's! If there is ANYTHING you want to see featured, please comment, head over to my Facebook or shoot me an Email! Jwaltersphotography@gmail.com

<3

Sunday Catch Up!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica Walters) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 22:40:00 +0000

Aloha from Florida ya'll! It's been a bout a good month since I have posted and I'm sure you're wondering where on earth I've been! Well, if you're a regular Facebook follower, then you know I've been visiting my family in the Sunshine State! I must admit, that while being home is extremely nice, I really miss Hawaii!

While I've been home I have had the opportunity to catch up with old friends, see my family, do a few photo sessions in the Tampa, Penscaola, and Jacksonville areas, and do some serious shopping!

I cannot wait to get back to my sweet iMac and pump through some editing my first couple days back so I can blog those sessions!

On the lineup for the first week back in Hawaii are some seriously great sessions! Starting off with a wonderful couples session, maternity session, boudoir shoot, childrens session and many more! May is booked full! I couldn't be more happy and feel more blessed than I already do!

I am some serious goals I'd love to accomplish in the month of May: become more organized (to include a better emailing system for me so emails back to you get answered within 1-2 business days and make sure checklists are getting done), stick to my working hours, finalize the details of my July special (Be on the look out!!!), and really focus on being the best photographer I can be and make sure each and every one of you is happy. Oh! And blog more!

I think part of what makes any business a good business is being real.. I am not perfect, will never claim to be, but I sure as heck will always try to make each and every client happy.

I have so many ideas and projects to put on my checklist. I plan to spend more time providing information to you- everything from what to wear posts to answering your questions that you have (Ask me ANYTHING!)

I am looking forward to getting to know you all better and letting you guys get to know ME as a person better as well!